South Korea’s KAI Eyes Opportunity to Supply Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) to Malaysian Army

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Industry sources have informed Defence Security Asia that Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is “exploring” opportunities to supply the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) to the Malaysian Army.

Last week, the Malaysian Army Chief, General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, attended the Korea Army International Defence Industry Exhibition (KADEX) in South Korea.

During his visit to KADEX, he visited the KAI booth and received a briefing on KAI’s LAH.

“KAI is looking for opportunities to supply the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) to the Malaysian Army,” an industry source recently told Defence Security Asia.

“The Malaysian Army is reportedly aiming to acquire light armed helicopters to enhance their attack capabilities.”

The LAH, developed by KAI, is a result of collaboration with Airbus, based on the proven Airbus H155 platform.

It is expected to be delivered to the South Korean Army this year, replacing the currently used light armed helicopters, the MD500 and AH-1S.

KAI is scheduled to begin delivering 10 LAH units to the South Korean Army starting in December this year.

The KAI-developed LAH has an overall weight of nearly 5 tons, capable of flying at speeds over 200 km/h for a range of 277 nautical miles (513 km).

It can remain airborne for up to 2 hours and 56 minutes and has a maximum altitude of over 8,800 feet.

Key features of the KAI-developed LAH include a Full Digital Glass Cockpit, five-blade composite main rotor, 2x Safran Arriel 2L2 engines with FADEC, Ducted Tail Rotor, Electronic Warfare System, Flight Control System, and Integrated Weapon System.

The helicopter’s armament options include 2.75-inch unguided rockets, air-to-ground missiles, and a 20mm cannon.

It is also equipped with a Target Acquisition Designation System (TADS) for day and night operations in all weather conditions, along with a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) for the pilot.

The LAH is designed to carry out missions such as Anti-Tank, Armed Aerial Escort, and Close Air Support (CAS). — DSA